4 Nights in Gateway Chikkamagaluru
Chikkamagaluru is known for its lush green coffee plantations that can be seen throughout the region, and we came across them along the routes to waterfalls, lakes, and temples. Many plantations offer guided tours for visitors, but we chose to skip the activity since we had already visited several coffee plantations in India and around the world.
- Mullayanagiri Peak
- Manikya Dhara Falls
- Honnammana Halla Falls
- Jhari (or Buttermilk) Falls
- Hirekolale Lake
- Muthodi Forest Safari
Mullayanagiri Peak: About 33 km from Chikkamagaluru, this peak is the highest peak in Karnataka at 1,930m. It offers breathtaking views, a small temple, and is famous for its cool climate. The road leading to Mullayanagiri is narrow with many switchbacks. Luckily we did not encounter much traffic on the way up or down.
Sithalayanagiri Peak – We first stopped by this hill which is located on the way to Mullayanagiri (approx. 3 km before the Mullayanagiri peak). This site features a temple dedicated to Seethala Mallikarjuna Swamy with a constantly wet Shivalinga, popular for its scenic and hilly surroundings. Several visitors park their vehicles at Seethalayanagiri and trek to Mullayanagiri which is about a 3 km uphill walk.
After exploring Sithalayanagiri, we drove another 3 km uphill and arrived at the bottom of the Mullayanagiri hill from where about 470 steps lead up to the highest point. The summit features a small temple dedicated to the sage Mullappa Swamy, who is believed to have meditated in nearby caves below the peak. The view from the top was a bit smoky, but we got a good view of the Hirekolale Lake which we visited later.
Manikya Dhara Falls – is a scenic and spiritually significant waterfall located in the Bababudangiri Hills of Chikkamagaluru district. Cascading from a height of about 30 feet, the perennial waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and cool mountain air, offering a refreshing retreat for visitors. Its name, meaning string of pearls, comes from the way the water sparkles in sunlight. The site is considered sacred by both Hindus and Muslims, and many pilgrims bathe in its waters believing they have healing properties.
Since private vehicles are not allowed all the way to the falls, we had to park our car about 3 miles away in a designated parking area. From there, we hired a jeep for ₹1,300 (round trip for 2 of us) to reach the site. It is cheaper if you are prepared to wait for more people to ride on the jeep. The ride was along a rough mud road, which was quite bumpy and may not be comfortable for those who experience motion sickness.
From the location where the jeep dropped us, the falls was less than 0.5 km and can be reached by descending a series of steps through a forested path, with a viewpoint on the way.
Honnamana Halla Falls – is nestled amidst lush coffee plantations, forests, and rolling hills. The waterfall is formed by a small stream that cascades down rocky terrain, creating a peaceful natural setting. Basic access roads lead close to the falls, followed by a short walk to reach the viewpoint. There is no proper parking facility, so visitors usually park along the roadside before heading to the falls. The spot is generally not too crowded, making it a relaxing place to visit.
Jhari Falls – also known as Buttermilk Falls, this is a scenic 2-3 tier waterfall about 23 km from Chikkamagaluru. The waterfall cascades from a height of about 50–70 feet over rocky cliffs, creating a milky-white appearance that gives it its nickname. It is surrounded by lush green coffee plantation all around.
The falls are accessible via a rough mud road, and visitors usually need to hire a local jeep (Rs 800 round trip) from the designated parking area to reach the base. Due to the rough and narrow road, the ride was even bumpier compared to the previous one and longer. The best time to visit is from July to January, when the water flow is strong and the surroundings are lush and green. There is an entry fee of about ₹200, and a natural pool at the base where tourists can safely swim and enjoy the water.
Hirekolale Lake – is a scenic man-made reservoir about 9–10 km from Chikkamagaluru, surrounded by the Western Ghats. It offers beautiful views of Mullayanagiri Peak (see first section) and has a wide walking path along the lake, making it a pleasant spot for nature walks. The lake has free entry, but facilities are limited—there are no shops, restaurants, or boating, so visitors should bring their own water and snacks.
Muthodi Forest Safari – is a nature-filled safari experience located inside the lush forests of the Bhadra Tiger Reserve near Chikkamagaluru. The reserve spans about 500 sq km across the districts of Shivamogga and Chikkamagaluru, with Muthodi forming the southern part of the sanctuary near Chikkamagaluru. Visitors can explore the dense forest landscape on a guided safari and may spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
We went on a 90 min jeep safari and spotted a wild boar, sambar and spotted deer, a crane, a tiger and a few peacocks.
The sanctuary is also home to the famous Jagara Giant, the largest teak tree in the state, with a girth of about 5.1 meters, a height of 32 meters, and an estimated age of around 400 years. The area also features an old forest rest house dating back to the British period, adding a rustic, colonial-era charm to the surroundings.
